PATHWAYS TO PROGRESS:
Ontario First Nations Priorities for Federal Policy Reform
The commitments and priorities outlined in the document below will serve as a pathway toward a future where First Nations and Canada can best work together in true partnership.
As the Chiefs of Ontario continue to advance real and measurable progress for Ontario First Nations, we must ensure that the nation-to-nation relationship is rooted in collaboration, reciprocity, and mutual respect. This includes upholding First Nations sovereignty and the principle of free, prior, and informed consent; and ensuring that decision-making processes reflect our inherent rights and responsibilities. Canada cannot make unilateral decisions that directly impact the rights and interests of First Nations people without their full participation and consent.
First Nations are committed to achieving prosperity alongside all Canadians through sustainable and equitable partnerships. Economic development—including trade, resource management, and border policies—must reflect our roles as stewards of the land, balancing growth with environmental responsibility and long-term sustainability. It is time for First Nations and the Government of Canada to build on past progress and move forward with policies that ensure a just, inclusive, and sustainable future for all Canadians.
The Chiefs of Ontario have also created a resource document with essential information on the upcoming federal election. It covers how and where to vote, updates from Elections Canada for Indigenous voters, and key electoral ridings in Ontario where First Nations populations could significantly influence voting outcomes.
These ridings have been identified based on research provided by the Assembly of First Nations, Census population data and Elections Canada information, and highlights areas with higher Indigenous populations. For those who choose to vote, this resource provides guidance to ensure your voice is heard in the election process.
PATHWAYS TO PROGRESS:
Ontario First Nations Priorities for Federal Policy Reform
The commitments and priorities outlined in the document below will serve as a pathway toward a future where First Nations and Canada can best work together in true partnership.
As the Chiefs of Ontario continue to advance real and measurable progress for Ontario First Nations, we must ensure that the nation-to-nation relationship is rooted in collaboration, reciprocity, and mutual respect. This includes upholding First Nations sovereignty and the principle of free, prior, and informed consent; and ensuring that decision-making processes reflect our inherent rights and responsibilities. Canada cannot make unilateral decisions that directly impact the rights and interests of First Nations people without their full participation and consent.
First Nations are committed to achieving prosperity alongside all Canadians through sustainable and equitable partnerships. Economic development—including trade, resource management, and border policies—must reflect our roles as stewards of the land, balancing growth with environmental responsibility and long-term sustainability. It is time for First Nations and the Government of Canada to build on past progress and move forward with policies that ensure a just, inclusive, and sustainable future for all Canadians.
The Chiefs of Ontario have also created a resource document with essential information on the upcoming federal election. It covers how and where to vote, updates from Elections Canada for Indigenous voters, and key electoral ridings in Ontario where First Nations populations could significantly influence voting outcomes.
These ridings have been identified based on research provided by the Assembly of First Nations, Census population data and Elections Canada information, and highlights areas with higher Indigenous populations. For those who choose to vote, this resource provides guidance to ensure your voice is heard in the election process.
Support Contact Information
For inquiries, please contact Hayley Lucas, Government Relations and Policy Manager at Hayley.lucas@coo.org